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Lincoln Riley faces pressure as USC football prepares for 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 5, 2026, 1:38 AM

Last updated Jun 5, 2026

Lincoln Riley faces pressure as USC football prepares for 2026 season

Summary

Lincoln Riley, head coach of USC, is under scrutiny as the Trojans prepare for the 2026 college football season. With expectations rising after a 9-3 regular season in 2025, fans and analysts alike anticipate a push for the College Football Playoff. Despite a successful track record in recruiting and developing NFL talent, Riley has failed to lead USC to the playoffs in his first four years. There are concerns about whether he can meet expectations this season, particularly after being rated among the coaches on the hottest seat entering the season.

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By the Numbers

•USC missed the College Football Playoff in each of Riley's first four seasons.
•The Trojans return quarterback Jayden Maiava for his senior season.
•Lincoln Riley is ranked sixth among coaches facing pressure entering the season.
•Expectations are high after a 9-3 record in 2025.

Latest Updates

1:38 AMYahoo Sports — Is USC Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley on the hot seat?

What they're saying

"
The college football offseason has been anything but quiet. Lawsuits have dominated headlines, debates over playoff expansion continue to rage, and some have even floated the idea of conferences breaking away from the NCAA. Amid all the chaos, another major…
— Yahoo Sports

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